In an attempt to quell escalating unrest, the Bangladesh government has enforced a nationwide curfew and dispatched military forces. This action comes in response to intensifying protests against job quotas that reserve public sector positions for families of independence war veterans. The policy has faced considerable opposition from students, who argue that it unfairly benefits pro-government groups and undermines merit-based recruitment. The BBC Bangla reported on the situation, citing insights from Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s press secretary.
Although the curfew is scheduled to last until Sunday morning, it includes a brief two-hour window each afternoon for essential activities. However, public discontent remains palpable, with demonstrations persisting in key districts of Dhaka such as Khilgaon and Rampura. The violent nature of the protests has led to fatalities, with reports indicating that at least 105 individuals have lost their lives in the turmoil, as noted by Barron’s.
- Following confrontations with law enforcement, protesters resorted to throwing bricks, setting vehicles ablaze, and storming jails. The police’s response included the use of tear gas, rubber bullets, and stun grenades.
- The government has also suspended internet and text message services since Thursday, further isolating Bangladesh from the outside world and hampering communication among the populace.
Under the Special Powers Act of 1974, the military’s deployment is designed to support civil authorities in maintaining order and safeguarding state assets. Law Minister Anisul Haque defended these measures to BBC Bangla, claiming that political terrorists are leveraging the chaos to destabilize the nation.
As tensions escalate, international entities such as the European Union and various human rights organizations have issued statements condemning the government’s heavy-handed approach. Prime Minister Hasina has called off planned diplomatic visits to Spain and Brazil due to the unrest. The opposition, led by figures including the Bangladesh National Party’s Tarique Rahman, has rejected the government’s offer for talks, insisting instead on the implementation of a merit-based recruitment system and justice for those who have died in the violence.